Calouste Gulbenkian Museum — Attraction in Lisbon

The Gulbenkian has an amazing collection, a delightfully idiosyncratic one, and it's a nice respite from the bustle and noise of the busy city around it. I like that it's approached through leafy gardens with winding trails – a kind of physical initiation into the contemplative quiet of the museum space. When we visited the Gulbenkian, a mysterious black cat appeared on the path ahead of us in the gardens and walked us up the stairs to the museum buildings.

Figuring out where to buy tickets and then where to enter the museum can be a challenge if you don't have a guidebook, as we did. Fortunately, it led us to the building where we purchased entrance tickets, but unhelpfully, it did not tell us that we then had to take the tickets to a separate building to see the museum galleries.

The collection is by no means exhaustive, if what you expect from a European museum is, say, a collection that covers the major periods of art and major countries producing that art. It has hidden gems, instead, like the fascinating, beautiful little collection of prayer niches from Iran. I like the idiosyncrasy, the surprises, and that the collection is small enough to be manageable and undaunting.

The one thing I didn't like: as my spouse said at lunch after we visited the Gulbenkian, "The most unfriendly people we've met in Lisbon so far were at the Gulbenkian." The staff were, on the whole – with one wonderful exception – rather cold and aloof, and in the case of one docent, when I stepped across a line I didn't know was there while looking at a Turner painting, rude and downright hostile.

Who puts lines on a museum floor to tell people to keep a distance, when people's eyes are naturally turned to the art collection all around? And who treats people with rude hostility for crossing those unannounced lines?

As long as I'm (perhaps ungenerously) complaining, I'd also note that the museum was incredibly hot – and I was not the only visitor I saw fanning himself as we walked through the Gulbenkian this morning. I understand that it's "winter" in Lisbon, but when the temperatures are in the mid-60s (F) as they were today, does the heat really need to be turned high inside buildings?

Wonderful collection and guardians. Staff that might consider aiming at being a bit...

Musée Calouste-Gulbenkian: A Cultural Gem in Lisbon The Musée Calouste-Gulbenkian in Lisbon is one of the most important art museums in Portugal, housing an extraordinary collection that spans thousands of years of human history. Founded in 1969, the museum is named after Calouste Gulbenkian, an Armenian philanthropist and art collector who assembled the vast collection over the course of his life. The museum is an absolute must-visit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the intersection of culture and history.

Located in the Gulbenkian Foundation, the museum's collection is divided into two main sections: Ancient Art and Modern Art. Visitors can explore works from Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome, as well as Islamic art and European painting from the 18th century to the 20th century. Some of the collection's most famous pieces include paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner, and Impressionist works, as well as Egyptian sculptures and Persian artifacts.

What Makes Musée Calouste-Gulbenkian Special: Diverse Collection: The museum features an impressive range of art, from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern European paintings, offering a broad view of human creativity across time. Stunning Artworks: The collection includes masterpieces from renowned artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Monet, as well as valuable Islamic art, oriental carpets, and Chinese jade. Cultural & Historical Significance: The museum offers insight into different cultures and civilizations, making it a must-see for those interested in global history. Peaceful Garden Setting: The museum is set within the beautiful Gulbenkian Gardens, providing a serene environment for visitors to relax and reflect after exploring the exhibits. Architectural Beauty: The museum’s modernist architecture, designed by Ruy Jervis d'Athouguia, complements the impressive collections, making it a visual delight both inside and out. Whether you're an art connoisseur or simply someone seeking to experience the wealth of human history and creativity, the Musée Calouste-Gulbenkian offers a tranquil and enriching experience. With its stunning collections and peaceful surroundings, it is an essential stop for anyone...

Honestly, before coming to Lisbon I had never heard of this man or this museum. I am so very glad that I hove now had that pleasure.

We took a taxi from out hotel to this museum after doing just a little reading up. The tickets were reasonably priced, especially since we got the senior discount and only paid half-price. Normal entry fee is €14.00.

The grounds around the museum are a garden worthy of a visit all on their own. We took a stroll around the grounds after our museum visit.

The museum is quite large, with more than one floor. On display you will find jewelry, carpets, clothing, pottery , sculpture and paintings. I was awe-struck by some of the carpets that are hanging in this museum. The displays are well presented, with lots of explanatory notes. Since the inside of this museum has subdued lighting, it was necessary for me to use the 'flashlight' on my cell phone to read some of them. It was worth the effort

My favorite piece in the entire museum was a rooster, which appeared to be made out of tile and or ceramics. It is a beautiful piece of art, especially since Portugal and roosters are an 'item'.

I cannot really do justice to the life and efforts of the benefactor of this museum. Each person should read up on this on their own, to discover what caused this man to dedicate his life and his fortune to preserving these awesome works. I am just glad that he did this, and that efforts on his behalf continue to this day.

My only issue with this museum is the fact that a lot of the art contained within is called 'Muslim' art or 'Islamic' art, which I take issue with. It is true that some of the artists were from countries that are now Muslim or honor the Islamic faith, but I just do not like labelling art as being specific to one religion.

Art is art, and should be appreciated it for what is.

The same applies to religion. Each religion should be evaluated on its own merits.

Please, do yourself a favor when in Lisbon, and go see this...